Cat Owner’s Guide To Rhinotracheitis In Felines

A virus that causes an upper respiratory infection is responsible for rhinotracheitis in cats. This virus is highly contagious, but usually only causes mild symptoms in mature cats. However, this disease can be fatal to kittens if they develop feline pneumonia. Here is everything you need to know about cat rhinotracheitis.

Transmission

The virus is highly contagious, as you already know by now. Contaminated food dishes, cages, and litter boxes can all transmit the virus. Also, cats can become infected if they come into contact with discharge from an infected cat’s eyes, nose, or mouth. As the owner, you also have to be careful as you can harbor the virus on your hands or clothing.

Symptoms

Cats affected with feline rhinotracheitis show common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. This includes coughing, discharge from the nose, and cat sneezing. Some cats also develop a secondary bacterial infection that can lead to pneumonia. Loss of appetite, fever, and corneal ulcers are also common signs of rhinotracheitis.

Treatment

Since secondary bacterial infections can become a problem, antibiotics are commonly prescribed when treating this condition. No other medications may be necessary since the condition usually resolves by itself within two weeks. However, nasal discharge can be limited by giving your cat nasal drops.

You will need to make sure your cat is consuming enough food and fluids. If not, he may need to have a feeding tube. To help minimize stress, you will need to prevent your cat from going outside. His recovery room should have plenty of ventilation and be warm. A humidifier would be a nice addition.

Prognosis

If affected by feline rhinotracheitis, your cat should fully recover within ten days. Recovery may take longer is a secondary bacterial infection occurs. Some cats that have had this condition experience chronic sneezing and nasal discharge.

All owners should know their pet can fall victim to various health problems in their lifetime. You can read up on many different potential health problems at cat-illnesses.com. So, come by right now to become informed.

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All About Distemper In Cats

One of the more serious diseases that can affect cats is distemper. It can easily be fatal. A virus, which is highly contagious, is to blame for this disease. Contact with other cats and humans is the most common method of transmission. Your cat can also be infected with this virus from litter boxes, bedding, and water bowls. Keep reading to learn all about cat distemper.

Signs

Cats begin to show symptoms about 10 days after being exposed to the virus. He will begin to display signs such as loss of appetite, depression, diarrhea, and vomiting. Improper grooming is also common. This is why most cats suffering from distemper develop rough hair. Some cats also develop a third eyelid in the inner corner of their eye.

Diagnosis

As soon as your cat begins showing symptoms, you need to take him to the vet. Once there, the vet will perform a blood test. If the white blood cell count is low and there are antibodies to the virus present, a diagnosis is confirmed.

Treatment

Your cat will need immediate treatment once diagnosed. As you now know, vomiting and diarrhea are two of the most common signs of distemper in cats. Therefore, fluids and nutrients will need to be given to prevent dehydration.

Cats suffering from distemper frequently experience secondary bacterial infections. Therefore, your cat may be given antibiotics also. Hopefully, this will give the immune system time to take over and combat the disease. Some cats also need a blood transfusion when dealing with this illness.

Prevention

The best way to prevent this disease is through vaccination. Kitten will need a shot when they reach eight or ten weeks old. Depending on the specific vaccine used, your cat will need a booster shot every one to three years.

You should also be aware that this is a hardy virus. It can survive in the environment for years. It can be harbored in carpet, upholstery, bedding, and other objects. The virus can be destroyed using a normal disinfectant.

All owners should know their pet can fall victim to illnesses in cats. You can read up on many different potential health problems at cat-illnesses.com. So, come by right now to become informed.

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